Physics teaching materials
In this lecture (as part of the Quanta, Particles and Fields module), we're looking at the internal structure of the electron cloud of an atom, investigate how we can interact with it by triggering transitions between the different electronic states using spectroscopic methods, and derive the shape of the periodic table from the states available in atoms of the different chemical elements. Interactions between electronic states and forces internal and external to the atom are also considered, and mathematical methods which enable us to predict transitions and explain spectra. [more]
My lectures on condensed matter physics cover the different ways of describing the structure of solids such as crystal lattices and co-ordination polyhedra, lattice vibrations, phonons and the propagation of sound waves in solids, and the magnetic properties of solids including collective magnetic phenomena such as ferromagnetism. In the specialist modules, I cover structure determination techniques such as microscopy variants, x-ray and neutron scattering probing the structure of materials at different length scales, and discuss the role of phase transitions in condensed matter physics. [more]
My Thermodynamics lectures begin by reviewing the Laws of Thermodynamics and the state and process variables of classical thermodynamics. We then discuss the thermodynamics of systems comprising multiple phases, non-ideal systems such as real gases. Finally, we will be looking at statistical thermodynamics, the different classical and quantum particle statistics and briefly cover the application of statistical thermodynamics to information theory. [more]
I no longer teach this module but have decided to leave the notes online for general reference. These pages give an overview of simple quantum systems which can be solved analytically, increasing in complexity up to the hydrogen-like atom, while delivering the necessary mathematics in examples. The concept of approximating solutions to the Schrödinger equation by linear combination is introduced and applied to atoms more complex than hydrogen and to molecules and solids made up of many atoms. The quantum-mechanical property of spin is discussed in terms of its implications for experimental physics. [more]
I no longer teach this module but have decided to leave the notes online for general reference. Following a brief review of ordinary differential equations, these pages deal with partial differential equations in detail, with applications across physics. Separation of variables, physical boundary conditions and Fourier expansion are introduced using the Laplace equation to determine a temperature profile in a hot plate. These techniques are subsequently transferred to the Poisson, diffusion and wave equations. The lecture ends with an introduction to Fourier transforms.
Dyma fersiwn Cymraeg y tudalennu hyn hefyd. [more]
These are notes of a Fourier workshop I used to run over three days for our 3rd year MPhys students. This is now covered in other modules, but I've decided to keep the notes online as they may be useful to someone out there. [more]
For Physics students in their 3rd and 4th year, lab consists of a single project. This is usually a year-long effort, although joint students do a shorter version in the second semester only. Y4 students work individually on their project while Y3 students generally work in pairs but write an individual report at the end.
A wide range of projects is available to choose from on the website, and we are also happy to consider students' own ideasfor bespoke projects if they fit with the goals of the module. Please speak to potential supervisors!
Each project is structured into a literature review, project planning, experimental and dissemination phase. Projects can be experimental, observational, theoretical or software development.
Dyma fersiwn Cymraeg y ddogfennaeth prosiect hefyd. [more]